Winter Flounder

Western Atlantic Ocean — from Labrador south to Georgia. The most important inshore flatfish of the Northeast US — found in bays, estuaries, and nearshore coastal waters of New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Enters shallow nearshore water in winter and spring to feed and spawn. Also called "Blackback" in New England. Population severely depleted — strict management applies.

33°F–52°F. A cold-water flatfish most active in winter and early spring. The winter season (December–April) is the prime fishing period in New England — fish move into harbors and shallow bays to feed. A right-eyed flounder.

Best Lures: Small jigs tipped with worm pieces near sandy bottom produce catches. Best Baits: Sandworms (blood worms) are the definitive Winter Flounder bait — a double-hook spreader rig with fresh sandworm on sandy or muddy bottom in harbors and bays is the classic technique. Fresh clams work very well. Light tackle (8–12 lb) with a small hook on or very near the bottom in sheltered bays in winter and spring.

Typically 1–3 lbs and 12–18 inches. Maximum approximately 8 lbs. World record: 7 lbs from Rhode Island. One of the finest-eating fish in the Atlantic — sweet, delicate white meat.